What services do you offer?

Our services include custom picture framing, museum-quality conservation framing, canvas stretching, shadow box framing, custom mirrors, and more. All work is completed on-site in our Palo Alto studio.

Do I need an appointment?

Walk-ins are always welcome during our business hours. However, we recommend booking an appointment to ensure you get dedicated one-on-one time with our designer. Appointments can be booked online at our booking page.

We frame a wide variety of items — original paintings, fine art prints, photography, vintage posters, certificates, diplomas, textiles, jerseys, memorabilia, and more. We also design and build custom framed mirrors. If you're unsure whether your piece can be framed, bring it in and we'll advise you.

How much does custom picture framing cost?

Custom framing pricing depends on the size of the piece, the frame style, matting, and glazing options you choose. We work with a wide range of budgets and will walk you through all your options during your appointment.

How long has Richard Sumner Frames been in business?

We opened our doors in 1972, making us one of the oldest businesses in Palo Alto and the only remaining custom picture framing shop in the downtown area. Over 50 years of experience goes into every frame we build.

Where is Richard Sumner Frames located?

We are located at 628 Emerson Street in downtown Palo Alto, CA 94301. We serve clients throughout the Bay Area, including Atherton, Menlo Park, Los Altos, and San Francisco.

Do you only serve Palo Alto?

No — while our studio is in Palo Alto, we serve clients throughout the San Francisco Bay Area. We regularly work with clients from Atherton, Menlo Park, Los Altos, and beyond, and offer delivery and installation throughout the region.

Canvas stretching & floater frames

We provide professional canvas stretching services for artists, collectors, and photographers who need their canvas work properly prepared for framing or display.

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Professional canvas stretching

We stretch canvases to museum standards for both original artwork and reproductions.

Hand-stretched over custom-built stretcher bars
Even tension to prevent warping
Ready for framing or display

This service is ideal for:

Original oil and acrylic paintings
Printed canvas artwork
Unstretched or rolled artworks

Proper stretching ensures your canvas remains flat, stable, and visually balanced over time. Poor stretching can lead to warping or distortion.

Painting of houses built on stilts over a body of water, with an overcast sky in the background.

Floater frame options

Floater frames create a clean, modern presentation that highlights the artwork without covering the edges.

Multiple wood and finish options
Contemporary gallery-style presentation
Perfect for modern interiors

Frequently Asked Questions

Still have questions? Take a look at the FAQ or reach out anytime. If you’re feeling ready to stop by, go ahead and book an appointment.

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Canvas stretching is the process of pulling an unstretched or rolled canvas taut over a wooden frame called a stretcher bar, then securing it so the canvas lies flat, stable, and ready for display or further framing. It is a critical step for preserving the appearance and longevity of any canvas artwork.
In most cases, yes. Rolled canvases can usually be stretched successfully, though older or more fragile pieces may require extra care. Bring your canvas in and we'll assess its condition before proceeding.
A floater frame surrounds a stretched canvas while leaving a small visible gap between the artwork and the frame, giving the appearance that the canvas is "floating" inside the frame. This style is popular for modern and contemporary art because it preserves the full painted surface, including the edges.
No. Many clients choose to display their stretched canvas without a frame, particularly for modern or abstract works. A floater frame is one option if you'd like a finished, gallery-style look, but it's entirely a matter of personal preference and the style of the piece.
We work with canvases of all sizes, from small intimate pieces to large-scale works. Contact us or bring your canvas in to discuss your specific project.
Yes. Over time, canvas can sag or warp due to humidity changes or improper original stretching. We can re-stretch your canvas to restore proper tension and a flat, professional presentation.

Need your canvas stretched or framed?

Bring your canvas into our Palo Alto shop and we’ll prepare it for a professional, gallery-quality presentation.

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